Mike Abene


Michael Abene is a jazz pianist known for accompanying singers and for arranging music. He has accompanied Susannah McCorkle Julius La Rosa, and others. He had his first solo album Solo Piano in 1986.

Early years

Abene was born on July 2, 1942 in Brooklyn, New York. His father, grandfather, and aunt were musicians. He studied composition at the Manhattan School of Music.

Recognition

Abene co-produced the album Avant Gershwin, which won the Grammy Award for Best Jazz Vocal Album in 2007.

Discography

As leader

1986: Solo Piano

As sideman

With Maynard Ferguson
With Dizzy Gillespie
With Urbie Green
With Cal Tjader